Composer

:

Cole Porter

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Publication Date

:

Dec 1948

First Performance

:

Dec 1948

Average_duration

:

3:56

"Brush up your Shakespeare" is a song composed by Cole Porter for the musical "Kiss Me, Kate." The musical premiered on December 30, 1948, at the New Century Theatre in New York City. The song is performed in the second act of the musical by two gangsters who are trying to collect a debt from the lead actor, Fred Graham. The song is a comedic number that pays homage to William Shakespeare and his works. The lyrics are filled with puns and references to Shakespeare's plays, such as "If she says your behavior is heinous, kick her right in the Coriolanus" and "Just declaim a few lines from Othello, and they'll think you're a hell of a fella." The song is composed in a swing style and features a catchy melody that is easy to sing along to. The two gangsters perform the song in a vaudeville-style, complete with choreography and comedic gestures. "Brush up your Shakespeare" is a standout number in the musical and has become a popular song in its own right. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in films and television shows. Overall, "Brush up your Shakespeare" is a lighthearted and entertaining song that showcases Cole Porter's wit and musical talent.

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